Skip to Main Content
NWACC Library

Public Speaking

Brainstorming for Your Topic

Brainstorming can be useful to help pick the "just right" topic for your assignment.

Some ways to brainstorm include asking yourself questions, free writing, and mind mapping. 

While it is not strictly necessary to do all three of these forms when beginning your assignment, it can be very useful to do some form of brainstorming in order to get your ideas flowing.

If you would like to create your own virtual mind map, consider using Bubble or Google Jamboard. (You will need to make an account to use either of these. Jamboard can be used with your Google e-mail sign in.)

Use AI to Brainstorm Your Topic

Techniques for Using AI in Brainstorming

  1. Explore Keywords:

    • Start with a topic idea and use AI to generate keywords related to the topic.

  2. Question-Based Prompts:

    • Input questions into the AI tool.

    • Analyze responses to identify potential research questions.

  3. Analyze the Trends

    • Identify emerging topics relevant to your field.

  4. Mind Mapping:

    • Create AI-generated mind maps to organize ideas visually.

    • Explore connections and branches from a central theme.

Tips for Effective AI Use

  1. Be Specific:

    • Provide clear prompts to get relevant suggestions.

  2. Refine:

    • Continuously refine your prompts and explore different angles.

  3. Evaluate and Adapt:

    • Ensure AI-generated ideas meet your assignment criteria and personal interests.

  4. Combine Human Insight:

    • Use AI as a starting point and combine its suggestions with your own insights.

    • Discuss ideas with peers or instructors for additional perspectives.

Disclaimer: Techniques and tips for using AI to brainstorm your topic was written using ChatGPT

Narrow Your Research Topic!